Massive Waves on California Coast Cause Flooding

Coastal communities in the state of California faced another day of raging waves and the possibility of flooding as officials issued evacuation orders in some areas, urging residents to stay away from the shores and coastal roads.

The National Weather Service in Los Angeles predicted significant flooding in low-lying coastal areas accompanied by powerful waves and strong currents that pose an "exceptional threat" of drowning and causing damage to structures such as boardwalks and piers.

The waves, reaching heights of up to 20 feet, could inflict further destruction on waterfront homes in vulnerable communities along most of California's coastline, which had already experienced severe waves and heavy rain earlier in the week.

The Ventura County Fire Department in Southern California reported that officials in the county issued evacuation alerts for residences along the Pacific Coast Highway as beach closures continued in the area.

In the San Francisco Bay Area, meteorologists said coastal flood warnings and high surf advisories would remain in effect until later.

They added that waves ranging from 26 to 30 feet are expected along west-facing beaches along the central and northern California coastlines.